Ex-African star: My only regret is not joining Real Madrid

A former African star has revealed how close he came to joining Real Madrid, adding that not joining the Spanish giants is his only regret as a player. 

New Nigeria coach Finidi George had a decorated career as a player, with a trophy cabinet that includes the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, a UEFA Champions League trophy, and three Eredivisie titles.

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He won the bulk of his silverware with Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam, having represented them from 1993 to 1996.

The former Nigeria international then went on to join Real Betis. Before his move to Los Verdiblancos, however, he had the opportunity to sign for another European powerhouse. 

"My only regret is not signing for Real Madrid. The Real Madrid you know now is different from 25 years ago," he said on Brila FM, per Soccernet.ng.

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"They were struggling with money and couldn't reach an agreement with Ajax. I had already agreed on personal terms with Madrid and spoken with Coach [Fabio] Capello.

"I had a pre-contract, but Real Madrid and Ajax couldn’t agree on the transfer fee."

Having been retired since 2004, George's career as a coach began in 2013 when he was an assistant coach at both youth and senior level at Eredivisie side PEC Zwolle. 

He then took charge of Enyimba FC and also worked as an assistant coach for the Super Eagles' senior side until he was appointed permanent head coach of the Nigeria national team, which he has described as being "a difficult job".

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The 53-year-old's most immediate task will be a round of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against